Bill Cody, a long-running announcer for Nashville’s WSM Radio and the Grand Ole Opry, dies at 67 in Nashville on Tuesday, multiple outlets report. For decades, Cody is recognized as a defining voice in country radio, including his work on the WSM morning show and his role as the Opry’s announcer. Colleagues and artists across the country music industry remember him for creating a welcoming atmosphere for both performers and audiences.
Several reports note that Cody had been dealing with serious health issues in the lead-up to his death. In May, his daughter shares that he suffered critical organ failure and required a transplant. In the days before his passing, members of Nashville’s country music community publicly called for prayers for Cody, according to accounts cited by outlets.
While reactions vary in wording, the coverage consistently highlights Cody’s longstanding presence on WSM and the Grand Ole Opry, and positions his death as a significant loss to the country music community.
